The New Sunscreen Rules: What to Do If You Use Sticks, Sprays, or Wipes

You know the rules of sunscreen by now, right? First rule, of course: Wear it. Second rule: Use more than you think you need—remember when we demonstrated what a half teaspoon actually looks like on the face? And a shot-glass of sunscreen for the body means a full shot glass. Third rule: Reapply every two hours—no exceptions, according to the FDA's latest guidelines. So that's all well and good when we're talking about old-school lotions. But how do these measurements translate to newer (and silkier and drier) formulas, like sprays and sticks? And have you ever tried rubbing on a shot-glass-full of wipes? Read on...

Stick: Easy to swipe on, use for touch-ups, and toss in a bag, we love the convenience and light finish of stick formulas like Neutrogena Beach Defense Stick Sunscreen SPF 50+. But we haven't been as clear about exactly how much to glide on. New York City dermatologist Joshua Zeichner recommends covering every area with "four passes back and forth" for complete protection.

Spray: Misting sunscreen all over is certainly a breeze, but it takes more than a gentle spritz to prevent sunburn. "Apply enough to the skin to make it glisten, then rub it in," says Zeichner, because even fine sprays require some elbow grease. If you're still unsure about how much is enough, follow these guidelines: two to four seconds of continuous spraying per limb, and five to eight seconds for the torso and back, according to Hao Ouyang, a research manager for Johnson & Johnson who works on Neutrogena products. (Our picks: Aveeno Active Naturals Hydrosport Sunblock Spray SPF 30 and Coppertone ClearlySheer SPF 50).

Wipes: We like ones such as MD Moms Baby Silk Babysafe Sunscreen Towelettes to quickly coat fidgety toddlers and prevent disastrous luggage leaks. But know this: "You definitely cannot use one wipe for the whole body," says Zeichner. "There are no official rules, but you can assume that one wipe contains enough sunscreen for your face," he says. "I would use one for each arm, four for the full chest and belly, another four for the back, and four for each leg." So if you're going to towelette route, pack a lot.